Why does odometer reading differ from GPS data in real case scenario

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There can be several reasons why the distance data from an odometer and GPS data may differ on a vehicle with a GPS tracker mounted. Some of the most common reasons include:

We often receive various questions about fleet data – how we gather and analyze them, and, most frequently, why is there a difference in the same data that is obtained from various sources.

It's possible for the distance data from an odometer and GPS data to differ on a vehicle with a GPS tracker mounted. This can be due to various factors, such as inaccuracies in the GPS tracking device, improper calibration, variations in tire size, systematic errors like road conditions, terrain, and atmospheric conditions, as well as issues like multipath, which occurs when a GPS signal reflects off of an object and takes a different path to the receiver. It's important to note, however, that these differences between the distances recorded by an odometer and GPS tend to be small, and in most cases, the odometer reading is considered the official record of a vehicle's mileage, not the GPS.

1. Tyre condition impact on distance readings

Different tire sizes can affect the distance recorded by an odometer, as the odometer measures distance based on the number of revolutions of the vehicle's tires. If the vehicle's tires have been replaced with different-sized tires, the odometer may no longer be accurate.

2. Errors in GPS tracking:

GPS tracking devices are not always 100% accurate, and can sometimes produce errors in their readings. This can lead to differences between the distances recorded by the GPS device and the odometer.

3. Systematic Error:

The odometer reading often does not take into account the roads or surface of the terrain, which would be in the GPS, for example, roads with bumps, steepness, etc. Also, GPS is affected by atmospheric conditions, which would cause differences in the actual distance, the GPS calculates.

In a nutshell, the differences between the distances recorded by an odometer and GPS are small and can be attributed to the inaccuracies inherent in both systems. It's important to keep in mind that while GPS tracking devices can provide more detailed information on a vehicle's location and movement, they should not be used as a substitute for the vehicle's odometer, which is considered to be the official record of a vehicle's mileage.

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Nzelum Cosmas

Admin is a seasoned astute author that have worked on various projects in the past and knows about fuel monitoring projects very well